Northern Smokes

Northern Smokes is a halal Southern-style barbecue smokehouse located in the eastern part of Scarborough, Toronto, Ontario. Founded in 2019 by owner Imran Ali (Neki), the restaurant originated from a passionate backyard cooking hobby shared among friends and neighbors through a community messaging group. As Canada's first authentic halal barbecue establishment, it features a menu completely free of pork, utilizing 100% hand-slaughtered halal meats. The smokehouse is renowned for its traditional wood-smoking process, using custom reverse-flow smokers imported from the United States and seasoned split hardwood to slow-cook meats for up to 14 hours. Signature offerings include tender Texas-style or Montreal-style Angus brisket, beef back ribs, and jerk chicken, which are complemented by classic side dishes such as cornbread, jalapeno corn, and maple-smoked beans. This suburban smokehouse has successfully earned a place in the local culinary scene and has been recognized as a recommended restaurant by the Michelin Guide.